Unfortunately, there are many other costs in addition to the cost of airline tickets to worry about when booking a flight. One of those main concerns is usually the cost of checked baggage. For those airlines that don’t offer this service for free, Money Crashers has come up with some practical tips for combating checked baggage fees. Here are their featured tips from the Intermediate Strategies section:

1. Put the Heavy Stuff in Your Carry-On: all checked baggage will get weighed, but often times airlines don’t have the time to examine and enforce the weight limits for carry-ons. In most cases, if it fits in the overhead compartment or under your seat, it makes it on the plane.
2. Wear the Bulky Stuff: coats, jackets and sweaters don’t count as carry-ons as long as you’re wearing them. Even if you’re departing from or arriving at a warm climate, try wearing your bulkier clothes on the plane. You can remove some layers once you’re settled on the plane. Also, be sure to wear your bulkiest shoes to save space and weight in your carry-on.
3. Get a Credit Card: some airlines will actually waive the checked bag fees if you purchase your airline tickets with their co-branded credit card (i.e. Delta and Continental). If you don’t currently have a lot of credit card debt, you won’t hurt your credit score by opening another card. Keep in mind, however, that perks like this are a good reason to choose a card but not a good reason to open a new account.

Check out more strategies and techniques at Money Crashers’ 11 Tips for Avoiding Airline Checked Baggage Fees.